Hemoglobin in children

A general blood test is a study that is most often performed by children and adults. This fairly simple test gives the experienced specialist important information about the patient's state of health. All indicators that are determined by this analysis are of great importance for diagnosis. One of the parameters that the doctor pays attention to when evaluating the results is hemoglobin. It is a complex protein that directly participates in the transfer of oxygen to tissues, and carbon dioxide to the lungs. It is a responsible function that affects human health.

Hemoglobin level in children

The normal value of this parameter is different for children of different ages. The highest concentration of this protein is found in the blood of newborns. Physiological reduction of it can be noted during the first 12 months after the birth of crumbs. The norms of hemoglobin values ​​in children by age can be seen in special tables.

If the study shows a deviation of the parameters from the tabulated values, then this may indicate a violation in health. The doctor must determine their cause and prescribe appropriate therapy.

Causes of low hemoglobin in children

If the baby was lying during the blood sampling, the value may go beyond the lower limit of the norm. It is also possible after meals and in the time interval from 17.00 to 7.00. Therefore, to obtain objective results, you should carefully determine the rules for donating blood.

Reduced hemoglobin in a child signals the development of anemia. This condition can cause a backlog in mental and physical development. Kids with anemia quickly get tired, they are characterized by regular whims and irritability. Such children are more often sick, are prone to the development of complications, are prone to infections. That's why low hemoglobin in a child is dangerous. The following factors can lead to a similar state:

• poor nutrition of the nursing mother or unbalanced ration of crumbs;
• intrauterine infections;
• various bleeding, including hidden bleeding, for example, with certain gastrointestinal diseases;
• insufficient physical activity of the child or, conversely, excessive workload;
• some medicines.

Causes of high hemoglobin in a child

If the study shows a deviation of the result in a larger direction, then this too can alert the doctor. The following factors can lead to this state:

• increase in the level of erythrocytes;
• dehydration;
• chronic heart failure.

To a false increase in the level of hemoglobin in children leads to a high content of leukocytes in the blood. It is also possible if the material was taken from the vein and the tourniquet was applied for more than 1 minute.